Implants vs. Dentures: Which is Better?

August 24, 2018

Ever since around 700 A.D., dentures have been a reliable, albeit sometime imperfect, way to replace missing teeth. Over the years, both the technique and materials have been continually refined. So, Dr. Stone can give Ft. Lauderdale patients the best possible fit and never once use dentures made of wood.

In contrast, dental implants are basically the new kids on the prosthodontic block. The first such procedures were in the early 1960s. Today, dental implant patient satisfaction rates are among the highest in Dr. Stone’s entire practice.

In the implants vs. dentures debate, there is no right or wrong answer. Both are well-suited for certain patients and ill suited for others. However, one thing is certain. If you are missing teeth, you should seriously consider replacing them, and not just for cosmetic reasons.

Why Do I Need Dentures or Implants?

Improved quality of life may be the most obvious consideration when choosing implants vs. dentures. Once upon a time, toothless smiles were rather commonplace. Now, that’s simply not true anymore.

There are very real health risks as well. Missing teeth causes alveolar bone loss. The process begins almost immediately. Less bone density in the jawbone puts other teeth at risk and also causes the entire face to collapse. Older women are especially at risk, due to osteoarthritis and other conditions.

Furthermore, when there is a tooth gap, the other teeth drift to fill in the gap. Much like alveolar bone loss, drifting affects the mouth’s shape. It also makes basic oral hygiene very challenging.

Should I Get Dentures?

Today’s dentures are vastly superior to the ones Dr. Stone used when he first opened his Ft. Lauderdale practice in the 1980s. They look better, fit better, and last longer. There are also a number of options, including facelifting dentures. Lots of people are talking about this new innovation. Dr. Stone shapes the artificial teeth in a way that spurs jaw muscle growth. That growth improves the jaw’s appearance and, by extension, the face’s appearance as well. It’s almost like a facelift from a cosmetic surgeon.

However, dentures may still need adjustment from time to time. And, there is also an adjustment period for your mouth.

Are Implants For Me?

Dentures are basically replaceable artificial teeth. Implants, on the other hand, are permanent artificial teeth. A titanium post replaces the root and Dr. Stone attaches the new crown to this post. The process is as complex as it sounds. But Dr. Stone teaches this technique to other dentists, so he is one of the best prosthodontists in Ft. Lauderdale to see.

The cost of dental implants is a deal-breaker for some. Moreover, some additional work, such as grafting bone onto the jaw, may be required.

Implants vs. Dentures: The Final Word

Your oral health and overall health, as well as the cost issue, usually determine the best procedure in each case.